Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) has raised alarms in Pune with over 111 reported cases and one suspected death. Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat from AIIMS Delhi weighs in on how contaminated food could be fueling the outbreak.
A recent spike in cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune has doctors on edge. Over 111 cases have been reported, with 17 patients on ventilators and one suspected death in Solapur. As the city grapples with this rare but serious condition, one doctor is urging caution about the food we eat. Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat, from AIIMS Delhi, has highlighted the role contaminated food and water play in triggering GBS, especially in the wake of gastroenteritis, a major risk factor.
Dr. Sehrawat’s warning focuses on specific foods that can heighten the risk. According to her, foods like paneer, cheese, and rice, if not stored or handled properly, can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria that contribute to gastroenteritis. This, in turn, can trigger the onset of GBS in susceptible individuals.
The Growing Concern: GBS in Pune
Over the last few weeks, Pune has witnessed an alarming surge in GBS cases. The rare neurological disorder is characterized by symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and paralysis, often starting in the feet and hands. In some severe cases, GBS can progress rapidly, leading to respiratory failure and the need for ventilator support. Dr. Sehrawat noted that the condition’s quick progression in this current outbreak is particularly concerning.
The latest figures show that more than 111 cases of GBS have been recorded, with at least 17 patients currently requiring ventilators. While doctors are closely monitoring the situation, there’s a growing consensus that contaminated food and water may be behind this uptick in cases.
Why Are Certain Foods Risky?
Dr. Sehrawat emphasizes that some foods, if not prepared or stored properly, are more likely to carry harmful bacteria, which can cause gastroenteritis. Gastroenteritis, an infection that affects the stomach and intestines, is one of the main triggers for GBS. When the stomach and intestines are inflamed due to infection, it can lead to the immune system turning against the body’s own nerves, causing GBS.
Here are some foods that Dr. Sehrawat advises should be consumed with caution:
- Paneer: A dairy product that can spoil easily if not refrigerated or handled hygienically.
- Cheese: Like paneer, cheese can harbor bacteria if not stored at the correct temperature.
- Rice: If not cooked or stored properly, rice can develop bacteria, leading to foodborne illness.
The risk of bacterial growth increases when these foods are left at room temperature or improperly handled, making them particularly dangerous for those already susceptible to infections.
Boosting Immunity: What to Eat Instead
While avoiding risky foods is crucial, Dr. Sehrawat also recommends boosting immunity through a healthy diet. One simple way to help your body fight off infections is by incorporating more Vitamin C-rich foods into your meals. Fruits like oranges, guavas, and strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants that help strengthen your immune system.
Moreover, keeping yourself hydrated with clean, safe water is vital. Contaminated water can also act as a medium for harmful bacteria and viruses, increasing the risk of gastroenteritis and, by extension, GBS.
GBS: What Is It, and How Does It Affect You?
Guillain-Barre Syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that attacks the nervous system. It is often triggered by an infection, and its symptoms typically appear within six weeks of illness. In this current outbreak, gastroenteritis is believed to be the main trigger. The condition starts with tingling sensations and weakness in the legs, and in severe cases, it can progress rapidly, affecting the ability to breathe and requiring intensive care. The good news is that GBS is treatable, especially when detected early.
Dr. Sehrawat highlighted that GBS patients in Pune are deteriorating at an alarming rate, with some requiring ventilators within just a couple of days of symptoms appearing. This underscores the importance of quick intervention, as early treatment improves recovery chances.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
The key to preventing GBS lies in vigilance—both with your food and your general health. Dr. Sehrawat urges people to:
- Avoid eating out at places where food hygiene could be compromised.
- Be cautious with water—always drink filtered or boiled water, especially in areas with a known contamination risk.
- Look out for symptoms of gastroenteritis and GBS, such as weakness in the legs, tingling sensations, or difficulty walking.
- Strengthen your immunity by eating nutritious foods and staying hydrated.
The outbreak may be concerning, but Dr. Sehrawat reassures the public not to panic. “We’ve seen these cases before, but an outbreak is always worrying. However, it’s not something to fear. If we manage our diet, stay hydrated, and take care of our immune systems, we can lower the risk,” she said.
What’s Next?
As the authorities continue to monitor the situation in Pune, further research is underway to understand the full scope of the GBS outbreak. Experts are working tirelessly to identify additional causes and potential treatments, while local health officials are focused on preventing the spread of infections.
For now, the best advice is simple: take care of what you eat, stay informed, and keep an eye out for early signs of illness. With proper care and precaution, the risk of GBS can be minimized.
